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Opioid Use Disorder: Facts, Risks, and Treatment

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Let’s Overcome Opioid Use Disorder Together. We’re Here To Help.

Opioid use and abuse have ignited an epidemic in the U.S. This is due in part to the increased access to opioids over recent decades and their highly addictive nature. What often begins as prescription relief for chronic or severe pain can turn dark and unhealthy. Asking for help is the first step in restoring the balance in your life and creating a renewed, safe future.
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What Is Opioid Use Disorder (OUD)?

Opioid substances are prescription painkillers and central nervous system (CNS) depressants. Their narcotic effects reduce the experience of pain and can ignite a euphoric sensation, increasing the risk of addiction.

The most common opioid drugs include hydrocodone (Vicodin), oxycodone (OxyContin, Percocet), fentanyl, heroin, methadone, and more. Most are Schedule II controlled substances, with some (like heroin) being Schedule I.[1]

Abuse of opioids includes taking higher doses than prescribed, for a longer timeframe than intended, administering the substance in alternate ways (crushing, injecting, etc.), and obtaining the prescription illegally or without a prescription. Opioid-related deaths were not tracked until the late 90s, but since then, opioid deaths have tripled overall, with a 41% increase in 2020.[2]

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health (5th) has established a set of criteria for diagnosing opioid use disorder (OUD). This requires two of the following symptoms to maintain a pattern in one’s life for one year:[3]

  • Larger doses or a longer timeframe of taking opioids
  • Unable to quit or limit opioid use or reduce despite a desire to do so
  • Spending copious amounts of time acquiring, using, and recovering from opioid use
  • Craving opioids
  • Reduced functioning and performance at work, home, or school
  • Negative social and economic effects do not inspire new behavior
  • Neglecting hobbies and activities due to interfering with opioid use
  • Using opioids in risky or hazardous situations
  • Mental, physical, and emotional problems due to opioids do not stop use
  • Developing a tolerance to the effects of opioids
  • Experiencing withdrawal when opioids are reduced or stopped

Side Effects of Opioid Use

Like other CNS depressants (Valium, Xanax, heroin, etc.), opioids slow down critical body functions, like heart rate and breathing or respiratory depression. These more severe effects can become fatal in the event of an overdose.

Common side effects of opioid use include:[4]

  • Drowsiness
  • Constipation
  • Dizzyness
  • Vomiting
  • Nausea
  • Developing a tolerance or dependence on opioids

Long-Term Health Risks of Opioid Use

Aside from rare situations, most opioids are not intended for long-term use. One of the most serious concerns when it comes to opioid use is its propensity to alter brain chemistry. This can cause the brain to function abnormally or misfire when opioids are not present.[5]

Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms

Each person’s experience with withdrawal will vary based on medical history, history of opioid use, the presence of any other substances, and the time of the last dose. However, common opioid withdrawal symptoms include:[6]

  • Muscle aches and pains
  • Flu-like symptoms (watery eyes, runny nose, vomiting, nausea)
  • Pupil dilation
  • Light sensitivity
  • Restlessness
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Cold flashes (goosebumps)
  • Diarrhea

In most cases, withdrawal is only temporary and only present in those who have developed a tolerance to the effects of opioids, chemical dependence on the substance, or those who have an opioid use disorder (OUD).

Holistic Treatment For Opioid Use Disorder

Our mission is to make luxurious, effective treatment as accessible as possible for those who need it most. There should be no barrier to treatment that prevents you or a loved one from getting the help you need. We also prioritize positivity and fun, so you never have to worry about dreading the treatment experience.

Individualized Treatment Planning

While there are lots of others walking the same path to recovery, no one else is in your shoes. No “off the rack” treatment plan will be truly effective or offer the same level of critical support you need. Across multiple levels of care, our specialized treatment programs provide long-term support to facilitate life-changing recovery.

  • Medical Detox: Detox is the earliest and often most challenging stage of recovery. This is usually when the withdrawal has set in, and you need the highest possible level of support. Our medical detox occurs over 3-10 days where you will receive medical and clinical oversight in a safe environment.
  • Rehab: The NUMA Recovery rehab program is the cornerstone of lasting recovery and sober success. You’ll stay in one of our three luxurious California craftsman homes and participate in daily sessions, weekly treatment, and a fun range of recreational activities. As you build coping skills and enjoy a supportive community, you will begin to restore the balance of wellness in your life.
  • Stabilization: Once formal treatment has ended and you begin to reintegrate daily obligations and schedules, our Stabilization program provides a safety net of support. This allows you to continue building a bright and healthy future without sacrificing your hard-earned progress.

Therapeutic Interventions

There are a number of evidence-based interventions that are highly beneficial for substance and opioid use disorders. These methods allow clinicians and participants to address the whole person and identify any potential underlying disorders or patterns. On this foundation, you can create new, healthy habits.

Therapy is also a powerful to to help you build the coping skills that will be essential to your lifelong recovery. Coping skills help you fight triggers and navigate potentially challenging circumstances to become the best version of yourself.

At NUMA Recovery, our therapy modalities include:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
  • Relapse Prevention (RP)
  • 12 Step Programs

Ready To Treat Opioid Use Disorder? Start Here.

We know this is challenging, but we’re here to make it as smooth and simple as possible. You CAN do this, and we can help you every step of the way.
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Sources

  1. [1]Drug scheduling. DEA. (n.d.-a). https://www.dea.gov /drug-information /drug-scheduling
  2. [2]Judd, D., King, C., & Galke, C. (2023, July 15). The Opioid Epidemic: A Review of the Contributing Factors, Negative Consequences, and Best Practices. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov /pmc /articles /PMC10410480/
  3. [3]Opioid use disorder. Psychiatry.org - Opioid Use Disorder. (2022). https://www.psychiatry.org /patients-families /opioid-use-disorder
  4. [4]Benyamin R;Trescot AM;Datta S;Buenaventura R;Adlaka R;Sehgal N;Glaser SE;Vallejo R; (2008). Opioid complications and side effects. Pain physician. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov /18443635/
  5. [5]Kosten, T. R., & George, T. P. (2002, July). The neurobiology of opioid dependence: Implications for treatment. Science & practice perspectives. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov /pmc /articles /PMC2851054/
  6. [6]Shah, M. (2023, July 21). Opioid withdrawal. StatPearls. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov /books /NBK526012/
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Numa Recovery Centers is a comprehensive drug and alcohol detox and rehab facility in Los Angeles, California dedicated to helping individuals overcome addiction and achieve lasting recovery. Our team of experienced professionals provides individualized care and support to address the physical, emotional, and psychological needs of those struggling with substance abuse.

Location

826 N Mariposa Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90029

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California License Number: 191284AP

Expiration Date: 01/31/2026